General Information

Health Requirements

Immunization and Health Forms:

• The New Hampshire Department of Health requires documentation of immunizations on file for each child on their first day of attendance.
• A child health form or equivalent record of physical examination must be on file within 60 days of admission.
• For children ages 5 and under, physical examinations must be updated annually.

Health Guidelines:

• Do not bring your child to school with a contagious disease. Inform us immediately if your child contracts such a disease.
• Keep your child home if they have a high temperature (101 degrees), upset stomach, or any other unusual symptoms.
• Teach your child to blow and wipe their nose and dispose of tissues properly if they have a cold.
• If your child becomes ill while at the center, we will call you to pick them up.

Injuries and Emergencies

First Aid and CPR:

• A staff member certified in CPR and first aid is always present during operating hours.
• Parents will be informed of injuries requiring treatment on the day of the injury.
• First aid supplies are available in several locations of the center.
• Procedures for managing injuries and emergencies are posted by telephones.

Fire Drills

• Monthly fire drills are conducted during center hours.
• Fire safety discussions are held at home.
• During fire prevention week in October, a firefighter visits the center.

Discipline

• Our discipline practices follow the State of New Hampshire Licensing Rules, focusing on positive guidance and clear limits.
• Consequences are related to misbehavior and enforced promptly.
• Corporal punishment is NOT used.
• Parents are encouraged to teach their children to respect authority and maintain discipline in school and at school-sponsored activities.

School Activities

Music:

• Activities include singing, chanting, movement to music, action songs, keeping time to rhythm, and making instruments.
• Music helps children learn letter sounds, numbers, and patterning.
• Musicians occasionally visit to share their love of music.

Dramatic Play:

• Children use their imagination to create adult roles through costumes, hats, tools, and equipment.
• Monthly themes such as grocery store, hospital, veterinarian center, and more are prepared in our classrooms.

Reading Corner:

• In addition to storytelling during circle time, children can look at books independently.
• We provide a “print-rich” environment to foster a love of literature.

Cooking:

• Play kitchen activities and real kitchen cooking sessions are planned.
• Cooking helps build self-confidence and pride in producing a finished product.

Center Time:

• Children can choose activities, promoting self-interest and decision-making.
• Teachers use this time for small group work.

Gross Motor:

• Outdoor activities like running, jumping, climbing, and playing with toys are emphasized.
• The sandbox encourages sharing and cooperation.

Toys for Learning:

• Stimulating and fun toys are provided.
• New toys and materials are introduced periodically to encourage measuring, sorting, touching, and more.

Technology:

• Special educational videos and exercise videos are used to build social and emotional skills.

Show and Tell:

• Children may bring something from home to share, such as a favorite toy, something from nature, or a small pet.
  
  

Arrivals and Departures

• Parents bring their children into the daycare facility.
• Most classrooms have direct access for parents to speak with teachers.
• The Brightwheel app is used for communication between parents and staff throughout the day.
  
  

Clothing Suggestions

• Children should wear clothes they can manage independently.
• Outer clothing should be marked with the child’s name.
• In colder months, leave a pair of slippers or extra sneakers at school.
• Play clothes are recommended, and an art smock will be provided for art activities.
  
  

Birthdays

• Birthdays are celebrated at school.
• Parents are asked to provide a special snack for their child and classmates.
• We light a candle and sing “Happy Birthday.”
  
  

Staff-Child Ratios

• Preschool: 12 children per 2 teachers.
• Pre-K: 12 children per 1 teacher.
• The director is available to assist in any classroom as needed.
  
  

Parent Involvement

• Parent participation in the classroom is encouraged but not required.
• Parents with special interests or careers are welcome to share with their child’s class.
  
  

Separation Anxiety

• Visits to the school are encouraged to help children feel comfortable.
• Some children may need a parent to stay with them initially.
• When ready, teachers can meet parents at the car to facilitate separation.
  
  

School Closings

• The preschool and kindergarten follow the Timberlane Regional School District calendar.
• A school calendar is provided at the beginning of the year.
• If local elementary schools are closed, our school is also closed, with some exceptions.
• In case of doubt about weather-related closures, call the school.
  
  

School Policies

• No gum chewing is allowed in school. Parents should ensure their child does not bring gum to school.
  
  

Confidentiality

• Information about children and their families is kept confidential.
• Information is shared with staff only on a need-to-know basis and with parental permission.